So much help (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_The_Melancholy_of_Haruhi_Suzumiya_episodes). Since I've avoided tying my brain in a chronological knot, I really don't have anything bad to say about the show - Haruhi's special flavor of insane is hilarious and, as you said, the animation and character designs are gorgeous.

Besides, the power of disco compels you! *starts humming the ending theme involuntarily*

Ja, -n
("I have no interest in ordinary humans. If there are any aliens, time travelers, or espers here, come sleep with me!"
-- from The Ecchi of Suzumiya Haruhi)